Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tophet

noun
ˈtō-fət
Definition
a place associated with the worship of an ancient god, often linked to child sacrifice.
Examples
  • In ancient times, parents might have taken their children to the tophet, believing it would appease their gods.
  • The archaeologists uncovered remnants of the tophet, revealing the historical significance of such a site.
  • Tophet is often mentioned in the context of ancient religious practices in texts from the region.
Meaning
Tophet refers to a specific location, particularly in the context of the ancient Near East, where it was believed that inhabitants engaged in sacrificial rituals, especially involving children, as offerings to deities.
Synonyms
  • holy site
  • sacred ground
  • altar